Sunday, January 31, 2010

Sometimes I feel as though our industry is compared to the "Let's Make A Deal" show aired in the 70's. Honestly, I just cannot be the "Marty" you see on TV. I don't have a toaster or 14 karat gold chain to slip in if you sign with me today, sorry.
I really do love what I do. However, for as much as I'd like to spend my life just designing events, I know I can be of better service training others to achieve their goals. Most that know me, I mean "REALLY" know me, are savvy that I'm not a follower. I'm a leader . I can't sit back when I see so much that can be done to make something better. Our industry for example.
My years working in Corporate America were a great experience and I thank the people who put their trust in me to build a better team,a better company overall. I always achieved their goals and made sure I surpassed the expectations. I've been trained to do this in all areas of my life.
OK. I'm letting loose.... I just don't understand why "we" cannot be one happy community? The bridal world is happy!!!! Why is the answer apparent that we can't? We'll, I can't accept that answer! For those who want to be elsewhere on their path to success, instead of training to get there you would rather criticize your peers (us) who have?? This is happening in every area of our industry. I know I'm not alone in this thought process. I just don't have the edit button like some of our vendors do.
Why are some people are better than others? Honestly, there's no "BIG" secret and stop asking why we're better (no one is better, maybe "better" educated or trained). It's simple. We train, we work our behinds off and not to be the best, or better. Like some of you some might think. We do it to better ourselves. And sometimes what we offer isn't good enough for us, so we reach for more. And yet, in the end when were rewarded or recognised for this, it's not always such a positive forum of feedback from our peers. Makes no sense to me??? I'm not asking for a silver star, just some respect on how hard I work.
We can all blame the green monster of jealousy..I'm getting tired of doing that. I just chock it up and move on...Or try to.
People ask why I charge what I do? Why does it matter? You may ask what I do that's better than you? Again, why does it matter? I'm not trying to be better than anyone in the industry.But instead am trying to better myself. If this is a crime, so be it.
In the last 2 months I have had wedding spies I laugh when I say this..Yes...Wedding Spies..Who call and ask for pricing or package information. I just want to pre-warn you, I don't give any of that information to anyone on the phone. Why? Again, none of your business. You may hear I charge 3 times the amount you do. And honestly, we all charge what we feel were worth.
If you try to low ball some of the planners who have been doing this for a long period of time, you are essentially saying your worth less. If you want this type of reputation, go for it. I would highly suggest you revisit this option. Our clients share your information with us to see if we'll match the price. I say this with my heart, why do I need to match someones price when I still invest the same amount of time and have more experience than some of the others on their list? They end up agreeing were not comparing apples to apples.
So why does someone work with us? Because they like our vision. We do sell ourselves along with experience. If someone worked with us for the wrong reason, they would lose out on having the best experience possible. Not all clients are the right fit for my team, and we know this. So as some might take on anyone,I'm going to take a different approach and make sure the client, no matter how much of a budget they have, is able to receive the best experience possible. If it can't be with us, I want them to find someone who can offer this. It's not always about the dollar bill people.
I know with this tough economy you may feel taking on any client is key. You will learn the hard way. Stop looking at your financial benefits and start worrying about your clients experience huh? And PLEASE stop trying to low ball us..Your not giving yourselves a good reputation, your destroying your worth. I'm giving you great sound advice. You want success? Then start with putting in the time and effort needed. We did!
For those planners who feel by charging less, your going to gain more clientele,or possibly get more of our business, you're mistaken. Most of the clients we work with, know exactly what they are investing in. And they are comfortable investing more in a company such as ours because they know we've worked a long time to get here. And to be honest, we're a better fit. I promise you, they have done their homework. And it's not just from watching us on a reality television show.
I have a good piece of advice for those who try to low-ball planners, florists, photographers etc...Sometimes by doing this, your doing us a favor. Not every client you work with is going to be easy. The biggest gift you can give us is to take away more stress. If you want to work with people who nickle and dime all of your vendors including your services, you can have them. But, who will walk away feeling good about the exp? You may want to ask yourself that.
Wishing all of the aspiring planners much success! And if you ever want to learn a better way of working with your business, maybe calling me directly might be a better way to get my attention? I'm getting smarter and our meetings with you will be much more fun for us than you, if this continues.
One last thought, I will do just about anything for someone who genuinely wants to learn. You have my word on that!

Saturday, January 23, 2010

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:Premier Business Showcase Hosts Cocktail Networking Event Featuring Celebrity Event Designer
TV Personality Samantha Goldberg will offer advice and tips on “Positioning Your Business for Success in 2010”Somerset, New Jersey - January 21, 2010 - Premier Business Showcase announces a Networking Cocktail Party, featuring nationally renowned guest speaker Samantha Goldberg, who is a Celebrity Event Designer and television personality on Style Network’s “Whose Wedding is it Anyway” and “Married Away.”
Hosted at Toucan’s Martini Lounge in Somerset, NJ, on Wednesday, January 27th, 2010, this public event offers an opportunity to meet an eclectic mix of NY and NJ business professionals in a relaxed, upscale setting. This occasion of open communication invites those looking to grow their business, looking to meet with other area business people, or interested in sharing professional experience.
Goldberg will lead a discussion on “Attracting the Right Clients” and “How Your Business Can Thrive in a Challenging Economy.” As the owner of her own company Gold Events Planning, and the spokesperson for Hilton Brand Hotels and author of their Online Booking Tool "Guestiquette," Goldberg will share her pearls of wisdom for “Positioning Your Business for Success in 2010.”
Attendees will have opportunities for elevator pitching, and are encouraged to bring business cards for networking.
The event entrance fee is $7, including free hors d’oeuvres and $5 drink specials.
To register, please visit www.premierbusinessshowcase.eventbrite.com. Tickets will be available until January 27th, 2010.
The event will also feature the soulful music entertainment of Barry Ward, of Wise DJ Sound Entertainment.
A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to The Haitian Relief Fund.
Questions or concerns, please contact ACL Event Planning at 570.977.6638 or acleventplanning@yahoo.com.
Information Summary:
Guest Speaker: Samantha Goldberg, Celebrity Event Designer & TV Personality
Toucan’s Martini Lounge
1850 Easton Avenue
Somerset, NJ 08873
January 27, 2010
Cost: $7.00 at the door
This event is sponsored by: ACL Event Planning, Wise DJ Sound Entertainment, Michael Derek Photography and Toucan’s Martini Lounge.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

I have to admit, after educating the tri-state area and then working with students in other countries, this experience has been amazing! We have a FABULOUS list with several of you who have been asking when is our next class. While I would love to have them monthly, it's just not possible right now.
I have many great projects that are FINALLY happening in the next few weeks that will help me to get the next level within the event industry. You do know how I love to educate, and I have tried to keep costs on the low end.
Our wonderful Lacey has come up with a great idea on how I might be able to train you in the beginner series but weekly, instead of one Saturday in theory and 6 months of hands on training.
How does this sound...Starting on Feb 4th, I will begin to have 7 weeks of 1.5 hour classes for the novice planner. Each week will break down our fee to $100 payments. The first payment is used as a deposit and each additional class you may pay in cash on the night of, money order or via credit card. If you can cover 1/3 the class upfront we will offer a $30 discount, please inquire. This is not applicable if we are able to grant financial aid sorry!
I am not able to offer more than this and I apologise! But this was the only way I can still educate and do what I need to on the weekends! My next Sat class may be in April or possibly in June.
Logistics are Feb 4th-Until March 11th 2010. The fee for the class is $700 and will allow all students to pay weekly instead of upfront. I do not have much financial aid anymore :( But am asking my nearest and dearest vendors for support! Never say never!
We have 6 out of the 8 openings as of today.
Please call Lacey to hold your spot for the Feb 4th course from 7:00pm to 8:15pm. We will meet every Thursday for 7 weeks unless our class decides that another week night will work.
Lacey can be reached at 908.219.4028 or lacey@samanthagoldberg.com
Location: 12 Bank Street Suite 201 Summit NJ 07901
I hope this works! I wish I could teach every week and I think this may work out!
xoxo
Samantha

Tuesday, January 12, 2010

OK gals...First of all CONGRATS on your new engagement! I want to know how long did it take you to run to the nearest dress shop? Can we smell the smoke?? I know some of you guys bought the dress without finding out what your budget for the wedding is! Shame Shame! Heck, I don't blame you, I did the same thing.
The BIG question this year is... HOW do I get the wedding I want with this budget that looks quite slim???...Well bridal buddies, it only looks slim when you have 15K and 400 guests! Stop laughing, you know what I'm saying. The only solution I have for you in this case is Ramen noodles and possibly a soda for each guest. Maybe a Hershey's kiss to go?
I realize that you may have a huge list, but something has to give. Weddings are meant to celebrate your union. If we had bigger budgets, it would be easier for some, but not always the best answer. The bigger the budget, the HIGHER your expectations are for what YOU think your wedding should look like.
It's a rarity that any guest would say "Sarah better have diamond earrings as favors and a mile long Venetian table". Heck, I would love to give diamonds to my guests! But it's not realistic. No one expects anything! Whatever you have, is going to be fabulous!
I do have some good news for my favorite 15-30K bride who is flexible with date and have a guest list of 140 or less. I have a nice BIG handful or 4-5 star properties in New Jersey who have made magic ladies. MAGIC I TELL YOU! They have dropped their fees by over half...I wish I had this years ago!
I am not at liberty to advertise them. But promise you, after you meet with one of our consultants, your jaw will drop! And we can laugh all the way to the altar together! I never lie about funding or $$$. Anyone that knows us, will agree it's not laughing matter!
Please note, these properties will ask for a non disclosure with pricing. Meaning, you cannot share your contractual(PRICE) information in chat rooms etc. It's a bonus for all of us! Let's keep this on the low so that others can have the same experience. OK?
Give Lacey, Victoria or Alyssa a call at the office to schedule a complimentary meeting! 908.219.4028
We have lots of planning to do gals! Let's not wait until tomorrow...Let's save $$$ TODAY!
Don't even bother asking if I have affordable vendors..That's a given! Lets GO!
xoxox
Samantha

Sunday, January 10, 2010

I have been looking for months regarding the legalities or performing ceremonies for our clients in the tri-state area. While there are many free sites, they are not exactly the real deal. It does take proper training and studying to become a minister or ordained clergy.
I have great news! I am now able to officiate your wedding in the state of New Jersey and the 5 boroughs of NY. I have always wanted to do this as it would be an incredible honor to be a part of your day!
We have worked with many ordained ministers and they have always been fantastic with great end results. We will continue to work with our chosen organizations. Please do not worry!
However, I feel that due to my relationships with our clients, there are some I would rather conduct on my own. We truly do get to know the couples for a minimum of 10-12 months in most cases. If that couple decides not to marry in the church and their Priest will not marry outside of their congregation, I know that we can make your vows to each other become meaningful and personalized. I can even tell stories about the process along with your relationship to your nearest and dearest guests.
While some of you want humor, some may want a romantic yet meaningful ceremony. Who can create that better than your partners in crime?
I look forward to this new part of Samantha Goldberg & Co and hope you enjoy it too!
xo
Samantha Goldberg

I devote my time to ensuring our clients recieve fab service. There's another "calling" for me. To give back to my peers that aspire to be the next "best" fancy pants somebody! Those who play it safe standing behind me, will fail. I do serve as a warning to others and yes, I'm nutty. It's who I am & it's not going to change, as it works. Feel free to comment & join me on what could be the best road trip EVER!